FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New England Force and Kerry FC Announce International Partnership to Advance Player Development
Pembroke, Massachusetts & Tralee, Ireland – June 12, 2026 — New England Force is proud to announce a new international partnership with Kerry Football Club, one of Ireland’s leading professional football organizations, focused on player development, coaching education, cultural exchange, and global opportunities for young athletes.
The agreement establishes a multi-year collaboration between the two organizations, creating pathways that will benefit players, coaches, and families on both sides of the Atlantic.
“This partnership represents an exciting step forward in our mission to provide world-class opportunities for our players,” said Don Whitaker, Owner and General Manager of New England Force. “Working alongside Kerry FC gives our athletes exposure to different football cultures, training methodologies, and development environments while strengthening the international footprint of New England Force.”
As part of the agreement, the organizations will collaborate on youth development clinics, player identification opportunities, coaching education initiatives, tournament participation, and cultural exchange experiences. Kerry FC will also provide selected New England Force players with opportunities to train within the club’s academy environment, while supporting future Force teams visiting Ireland.
The partnership will include:
- Annual youth development clinics led by Kerry FC coaching staff.
- International player development opportunities for selected New England Force players.
- Collaborative coaching education and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
- Participation by Kerry FC Academy teams in New England Force events and tournaments.
- Support for New England Force teams traveling to Ireland for training, competition, and cultural experiences.
- Joint community engagement and fundraising initiatives.
Steven Conway, Chief Operations Officer of Kerry FC, expressed enthusiasm for the relationship.
“We are delighted to partner with New England Force and support the development of young players both in Ireland and the United States. This collaboration allows us to share knowledge, create meaningful football experiences, and build lasting connections between our clubs and communities.”
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to developing well-rounded athletes through high-level coaching, competitive opportunities, and international experiences.
Since its launch, New England Force has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing soccer organizations in New England, serving more than 2,000 athletes across its youth, academy, and community programming. The partnership with Kerry FC further reinforces the club’s commitment to providing unique developmental pathways for players pursuing their highest potential.
For more information about New England Force, visit the club’s website or follow New England Force on social media.
About New England Force
New England Force is a premier youth soccer organization based on Massachusetts’ South Shore, providing elite player development opportunities through MLS NEXT, Girls Academy Aspire,National One League, DPL, NECSL, Academy, and grassroots programming. The club is committed to developing players in an environment focused on excellence, opportunity, and community.
About Kerry FC
Kerry Football Club is a professional football club based in County Kerry, Ireland, competing in the League of Ireland. The club is dedicated to developing football talent throughout the region while providing pathways for players to reach the highest levels of the game.